Your Expert Companion for Planning the Perfect Safari Experience
Buffalo Springs National Reserve (BSNR) lies in Kenya’s semi-arid north, with a climate that shapes the rhythm of its wildlife and visitor experience. Understanding the seasonal variations in temperature, rainfall, and visibility is key to maximizing your time in the wild.
Weather and Climate at Buffalo Spings NR:
Buffalo Springs National Reserve experiences a semi-arid climate marked by hot temperatures year-round, low humidity, and two distinct rainy seasons. Daytime highs typically range from 30°C to 38°C (86°F to 100°F), with cooler nights averaging 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F). The dry seasons—January to March and June to September—offer ideal safari conditions with clear skies, sparse vegetation, and concentrated wildlife around water sources.
The long rains occur from March to May, and the short rains from October to December, briefly transforming the landscape into a green oasis and attracting migratory birds. While rain can affect road conditions, especially in April, the reserve remains accessible with a proper 4×4. Overall, Buffalo Springs is a year-round destination, with each season offering unique ecological and photographic rewards.
Temepratures at BSNR:
Buffalo Springs National Reserve experiences consistently warm to hot temperatures year-round, typical of Kenya’s northern semi-arid savannahs. Daytime temperatures generally range between 30°C and 38°C (86°F to 100°F), with the hottest months being February and October, when dry heat and direct sun make midday hours particularly intense. Even during the rainy seasons, temperatures remain high, though occasional cloud cover can provide some relief.
Nights in Buffalo Springs tend to cool off considerably, with lows averaging 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F). This diurnal temperature variation is especially noticeable from June to August, when early mornings can feel crisp—ideal for morning game drives. Visitors are advised to pack layered clothing, including light jackets or fleeces for early and late hours, and sun-protective, breathable fabrics for the midday heat. The overall warmth supports a vibrant range of wildlife, with animals most active in the cooler hours after sunrise and before sunset.
Rainfall at Buffalo Springs:
Rainfall in Buffalo Springs National Reserve is low, erratic, and highly seasonal, reflecting its location within Kenya’s arid and semi-arid northern region. The reserve receives an average of 250–350 mm (10–14 inches) of rain per year, concentrated in two short rainy seasons: the “long rains” from March to May and the “short rains” from October to December. April typically records the highest rainfall, often accompanied by dramatic afternoon thunderstorms, while November brings lighter but steady showers that renew vegetation across the plains.
Despite these wet periods, rain seldom disrupts full-day activities, and showers are often localized and brief. The rest of the year remains largely dry, especially from January to early March and June through September, making those months ideal for wildlife viewing as animals gather around permanent water sources like the Ewaso Ng’iro River and the park’s natural springs. Visitors during the rainy months should be prepared for occasional muddy tracks and reduced visibility in thick bush, while those visiting in the dry season should expect dusty conditions and minimal vegetation.
Month-to-Month Guide on Weather in Buffalo Springs NR
🌅 January
- Weather: Hot and dry
- Temperature: Highs of 33–36°C, lows around 18–20°C
- Rainfall: Very little to none
🐘 Wildlife Viewing:
- Excellent visibility; animals concentrate around waterholes and the Ewaso Ng’iro River
- Many species are active early and late in the day due to the heat
👕 What to Wear & Pack:
- Lightweight, breathable clothing (cotton/linen)
- Wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, sunscreen
- Neutral colors for game drives; bright colors can disturb wildlife
- Hydration packs or refillable bottles are essential
🌞 February
- Weather: Hottest month, very dry
- Temperature: Peaks of 35–38°C
- Rainfall: Rare to none
🐾 Wildlife Viewing:
- Exceptional—dry conditions drive animals to springs and the river
- Excellent predator activity; easy spotting due to sparse vegetation
👕 What to Wear & Pack:
- Long-sleeved shirts (for sun protection), shorts or zip-off trousers
- Lightweight scarf or buff for dust
- Lip balm, sunblock, and extra water
📝 Travel Tip: Best for photographers—clear skies, golden light, and minimal haze.
🌤 March
- Weather: Start of the long rains (late March)
- Temperature: 31–34°C
- Rainfall: Begins increasing toward the end of the month
🦓 Wildlife Viewing:
- Still good early in the month
- Some animals begin dispersing as temporary pools form
👕 What to Wear & Pack:
- Add a light rain jacket or poncho
- Waterproof bag covers for cameras
- Closed walking shoes in case of muddy conditions
🌧 April
- Weather: Wettest month of the year
- Temperature: 28–31°C
- Rainfall: High; thunderstorms common in afternoons
🐦 Wildlife Viewing:
- Animals more dispersed but still visible
- Prime time for birdwatching—migratory and breeding species are abundant
- Lush green landscapes and flowering trees
👕 What to Wear & Pack:
- Waterproof clothing and boots
- Long sleeves to protect from mosquitoes
- Bug repellent and anti-malarials recommended
📝 Travel Tip: Roads can become slippery—4×4 vehicles are a must.
🌧 May
- Weather: Rains tapering off
- Temperature: 28–30°C
- Rainfall: Moderate, especially early in the month
🐘 Wildlife Viewing:
- Still spread out but scenery is stunning
- Young animals often spotted; great for nature photography
👕 What to Wear & Pack:
- Similar to April: waterproofs, insect protection
- Optional gaiters for walking around camp
📝 Travel Tip: Off-peak season = fewer tourists and potential lodge discounts.
🌞 June
- Weather: Dry season begins
- Temperature: 30–32°C
- Rainfall: Minimal
🐾 Wildlife Viewing:
- Improves as vegetation thins
- Elephants and giraffes return to riverine zones
👕 What to Wear & Pack:
- Light layers—cool mornings, hot days
- Comfortable shoes for bush walks and lodge trails
🌬 July
- Weather: Cool, dry, breezy
- Temperature: 28–31°C (day), as low as 14°C (night)
- Rainfall: None
🦁 Wildlife Viewing:
- Peak season for predators and large herds
- Dusty but great for visibility
👕 What to Wear & Pack:
- Light fleece or jacket for early morning drives
- Scarf or buff for dust
- Layered clothing for cool-to-warm shifts
🌞 August
- Weather: Ideal safari weather
- Temperature: 28–30°C
- Rainfall: None
🐘 Wildlife Viewing:
- Superb game drives
- Consistent elephant and predator sightings along the river
👕 What to Wear & Pack:
- Similar to July
- Rehydration salts or electrolyte tablets for long drives
📝 Travel Tip: Book lodges early—this is one of the busiest safari months.
🌾 September
- Weather: End of dry season
- Temperature: 30–34°C
- Rainfall: Low
🐆 Wildlife Viewing:
- Outstanding; animals are concentrated around permanent water sources
- Predator-prey interaction common
👕 What to Wear & Pack:
- Sun hat, breathable clothing
- Sunglasses with UV protection
- Extra batteries—long game drives = more photography
🌦 October
- Weather: Onset of short rains (mid-late month)
- Temperature: 32–35°C
- Rainfall: Increasing, particularly late in the month
🐾 Wildlife Viewing:
- Good early in the month, becomes more unpredictable
- Beautiful skies, green shoots appear
👕 What to Wear & Pack:
- Transition into wet-season gear
- Waterproof covers for optics/equipment
- Sturdy shoes for bushwalks
🌧 November
- Weather: Short rains
- Temperature: 30–33°C
- Rainfall: Moderate
🐦 Wildlife Viewing:
- Excellent for birdwatchers—many migratory species arrive
- Some animal movement to inland areas
👕 What to Wear & Pack:
- Full rain gear, insect repellent
- Lightweight but long-sleeved shirts and trousers
🌤 December
- Weather: Rains taper off by mid-month
- Temperature: 31–34°C
- Rainfall: Low to moderate
🐘 Wildlife Viewing:
- Wildlife returns to riverbanks
- Elephant herds and young antelope spotted more frequently
👕 What to Wear & Pack:
- Lightweight safari gear
- Rain protection for early December
- Festive travelers: book early as holidays fill up quickly
🧭 Summary: Best Months by Travel Goal
| Goal | Recommended Months |
|---|---|
| Best Overall Safari | Jan–Feb, Jul–Sep |
| Birdwatching | Mar–May, Nov |
| Photography | Feb, Sep, Nov |
| Avoid Crowds | May, Jun, Nov |
| Budget-Friendly Travel | Apr–May, Nov |
| Family Travel | Jul–Aug, Dec holidays |
🌿 Final Expert Advice
- Dry seasons (Jan–Feb, Jun–Sep) offer the best wildlife density and road conditions
- Rainy seasons (Apr, Nov) are rewarding for birders and landscape lovers but require 4x4s and flexibility
- Always pack a few layers—mornings can be brisk, and midday sun is intense
- Expect dusty conditions in the dry months and slippery terrain in the wet months